Owning the “last” of any collectible item carries a unique prestige, a sense of possessing something truly singular. In the realm of vintage automobiles, the quest to acquire the final example of a coveted model can span decades and involve significant investment. This pursuit is often complicated by the fact that many ultimate examples reside in museums or private collections, seemingly out of reach. The opportunity to own the very last of an iconic sports car is, therefore, an extraordinary and rare event.
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing, frequently hailed as the “sportscar of the century,” stands as a testament to groundbreaking design, advanced engineering, and exhilarating performance. It surpasses many other celebrated sports cars in the eyes of collectors and remains arguably the most significant and admired vehicle ever produced by Mercedes-Benz. The “Last Gullwing” represents the culmination of this model’s remarkable legacy, embodying its victories, glamour, and overall greatness.
EVERYWHERE, ALL THE TIME, ALL AT ONCE
The cultural impact of the 300 SL Gullwing in the 20th century extends far beyond motorsport, largely due to its relatively substantial production run. Between 1954 and 1957, Mercedes-Benz manufactured 1,400 Gullwings, with a significant number seeing competitive action on racetracks worldwide.
Instantly recognizable due to its distinctive gullwing doors – a design necessity arising from its lightweight spaceframe chassis, derived from the victorious W194 and W196 racing cars of the early 1950s – the road-going 300 SL Gullwing achieved remarkable ubiquity. It permeated popular culture, appearing in films, gracing magazine covers, and becoming a symbol of style and performance from Hollywood to European boulevards. Unlike many exclusive mid-century sports cars from marques like Ferrari, BMW, and Jaguar, the 300 SL Gullwing was remarkably present and visible.
Its close technical and visual connection to the formidable 300 SLR racing sports car of 1955 further enhanced the Gullwing’s mystique. Often considered the “first supercar,” the production Gullwing had a racing pedigree, while its 3.0-liter SLR relative, with its lightweight magnesium body and powerful engine, is considered by some to be the “first hypercar,” capable of astonishing speeds exceeding 180 mph. The 2022 auction sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe for a record-breaking $142 million solidified its place as the most valuable car in history, indirectly boosting the Gullwing’s iconic status.
Beyond its sporting achievements, the 300 SL Gullwing became synonymous with celebrity, success, and sophistication. It was the car of choice for socialites, business magnates, movie stars, and even royalty. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz offered a high degree of personalization, allowing owners to specify custom color combinations and a range of optional extras, making each Gullwing a statement of individual taste.
The 300 SL Gullwing’s advanced technology and racing heritage resulted in countless victories in prestigious sports car races and championships. However, its enduring appeal lies in its ability to combine these achievements with an undeniable elegance and desirability. It was, and remains, a machine often described as “a spacecraft on four wheels,” embodying both futuristic innovation and timeless beauty.
THE LAST GULLWING
On May 15, 1957, Mercedes-Benz completed chassis number 7500079, “The Last Gullwing.” This vehicle represents the final chapter in the production of Mercedes-Benz’s most celebrated model, a car whose legendary status has remained unchallenged for decades.
“The Last Gullwing” began its journey as a special-order Standwagen, initially showcased by Mercedes-Benz at the 1957 Poznan International Trade Fair. Subsequently, on September 27, 1957, it was dispatched to the Mercedes-Benz distribution network in the United States. While details of any appearances between the Poznan Fair’s conclusion in late June and its shipment to America are unconfirmed, it is known that by this time, Mercedes-Benz had already commenced production of the 300 SL Roadster, the Gullwing’s successor.
Intriguingly, factory documentation indicates that “The Last Gullwing” was originally finished in Fire Engine Red (DB 534) with a bespoke Crème leather interior (1060), English instrumentation, sealed beam headlamps, bumper covers, and notably, wider 15 x 5½ -inch Kronprinz wheels, typically reserved for the 300 SL Roadster. This wheel selection, attributed to its extended factory stay, adds another layer of uniqueness to this final example.
Despite its inherent significance, “The Last Gullwing” spent its early years in America in relative obscurity. However, this remarkably original and exceptionally rare car has enjoyed a fortunate existence, cherished by only four known owners throughout its history. It retains its factory-correct color scheme and matching-numbers chassis, engine, body, gearbox, and front axles. While the rear axle number differs slightly on documentation, it is believed to be original as well.
After more than 25 years under the stewardship of its most recent private owner, “The Last Gullwing” emerged from a meticulous, years-long restoration, undertaken by its owner. This dedication culminated in an invitation to the prestigious 2004 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. This marked the Gullwing model’s inaugural entry into this highly selective event. Judges and attendees lauded chassis 7500079, awarding it 3rd in Class – a remarkable achievement and a testament to the quality of its restoration.
Despite its undisputed position as Mercedes-Benz’s most iconic production model, the 300 SL Gullwing has maintained its captivating allure for over seventy years. This enduring appeal stems not only from its association with Hollywood glamour, motorsport victories, or its initial striking beauty, but from its embodiment of an ideal: the pursuit of automotive excellence.
Owning “The Last Gullwing” transcends mere vehicle ownership; it’s an association with the model’s inherent greatness and the triumphs of those who contributed to its success. Similar to owning Michael Jordan’s final game jersey or Babe Ruth’s last home run ball, possessing “The Last Gullwing” elevates collecting to a profound level. It’s about holding a tangible piece of automotive history, the ultimate representation of an era-defining machine. To own “The Last Gullwing” is to possess a legacy.
